Atiku responds to Governor Makinde’s age remarks, challenges him to ‘intellectual contest’
By Kunle Sanni
Nigeria’s former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has hit back at Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, describing him as “a poor student of history” and challenging him to an “intellectual contest.”
Atiku’s response followed recent comments by Makinde suggesting that age could be a limiting factor for presidential hopefuls in the 2027 election.
Represented by Hon. Dimeji Fabiyi, a senior leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from Ogun State, Atiku emphasized his readiness for leadership, pointing to his extensive experience and problem-solving skills as proof of his capabilities.
Fabiyi argued that Atiku’s “intellectual prowess” far surpasses Makinde’s, calling the governor’s remarks shallow.
“As a matter of fact, I challenge Seyi Makinde to an intellectual contest with Atiku,” Fabiyi stated. “Let’s see if his arrogance and presumed youthfulness can stand up to Atiku’s experience and knowledge.
“I have known Atiku for almost three decades, and I can tell you for free that he’s an avid reader. Next time Makinde is in town, he should look into Atiku’s extensive and flourishing library.
“Atiku is not a collector of expensive wines nor a companion to excessive drinkers. He is a lover of books who reads widely. If Makinde believes leadership is all about physical vigor, he should reconsider before making comments that make him look like a clown,” Fabiyi added.
Fabiyi further advised Governor Makinde to learn from the recent U.S. presidential election, where President-elect Donald Trump, Atiku’s contemporary in age, secured a convincing victory over a much younger opponent.
“Politics is a marketplace of ideas, where experience and age are invaluable assets. Trump’s win shows that voters recognize these qualities,” Fabiyi argued.
“I urge Governor Makinde to spend more time reading and engaging with intellectuals rather than associating with heavy drinkers. This way, his future remarks may reflect greater wisdom and maturity.”
